Design Classic – Influential and important design
No. 22 Diamond Chair
- Designer: Harry Bertoia
- Material: upholstery and rubber
- Manufacturer: Knoll Associates, New York city
Many would argue that this is more of a sculpture than a chair. It was created to be observed from all angles and built on Bertoia’s previous work with visual transparency and metal wire sculpting. Indeed, such was his attitude towards his profession. He had been a sculptor before inventing this chair and continued to do so for the remainder of his life. On the other hand, this wire chair represents the aesthetic of postwar design – new materials, a new lightness of form, and a promise of the future for many people.
Bertoia was at the centre of contemporary American design advances from the late 1930s when he relocated to the Cranbrook Academy. He met his friend Charles Eames, with whom he temporarily collaborated, and Florence Knoll at Cranbrook. She was the one who later offered him the commission to design and build the chair of his choice. The Diamond collection took two years to develop, with fabricated wire mesh to create a network of diamond patterns shaped into these unique sitting shells floating in space. Because it relied on hand welding, the range was always pricey. Despite being Bertoia’s final furniture designs, they have become classic postwar chairs.
Sources
Byars, M., & Riley, T. (2004). The design encyclopedia. Laurence King Publishing.
McDermott, C. (1997). Twentieth-century design. Carlton.
More Classic Design
-
Seagram Building Iconic New York Building
The Seagram Building in New York, designed by Mies van der Rohe and Philip Johnson, redefined modern architecture with minimalist design and urban innovations.Read More →
-
Lava Lamps Retro Cool Mesmerizing History
The lava lamp, invented in 1963, embodies psychedelic and retro aesthetics, symbolizing counterculture movements. Its enduring appeal and scientific intrigue make it a beloved cultural icon today.Read More →
-
Wedgwood Wonderlust Emerald Forest Teacup & Saucer
Embark on a journey with the Wedgwood Wonderlust Emerald Forest Teacup & Saucer. Crafted from fine bone china, it’s a narrative of adventure and exploration.Read More →
-
The Moka Induction Rossa: A Symphony of Italian Craftsmanship in Your Kitchen
The Moka Express is a straightforward stovetop coffee maker. It unscrews in the centre, and water is poured into the bottom compartment. Read More →
-
Räsymatto Mug (8.8oz): A Design Enthusiast’s Dream
The Räsymatto Mug by Marimekko embodies design evolution, durability, and visual storytelling. Carefully crafted with material excellence, it adds cozy inspiration to everyday routines.Read More →
-
Cylinda Line Teapot by Arne Jacobsen
The Cylinda Line by Arne Jacobsen revolutionized design, blending form and function, epitomizing neo-functionalism. Its precision and elegance redefine daily essentials.Read More →
-
Cloudnola Flipping Out Text Wall and Tabletop Flip Clock: A Fusion of Art and Time
The Cloudnola Flipping Out Text Clock is a fusion of art and time, blending retro charm with modern design, quality craftsmanship, and versatile placement options.Read More →
-
The Supercharged 1936 Auburn 852: A Rolling Art Deco Masterpiece
The 1936 Auburn 852 Supercharged Cabriolet epitomizes Art Deco elegance and automotive innovation, showcasing Auburn’s visionary craftsmanship and luxury engineering. Visit HOTCARS for more.Read More →
-
Hemi Muscle 70 Years: The Unrivaled Legacy of Power and Prestige
“Hemi Muscle 70 Years” by Darwin Holmstrom unveils the legendary journey of the iconic Hemi engine, showcasing its impact on automotive performance and enduring legacy.Read More →
-
Paddington Bear: A Design Icon Through the Ages
Paddington Bear is an enduring hero, symbolizing kindness and the immigrant experience through his design elements, balance, emphasis, movement, and unity.Read More →
-
Introduction to the Iconic Landi Chair
The Landi Chair, designed by Hans Coray in 1938, epitomizes functional beauty and embodies the functionalist movement, influencing modern design.Read More →
-
Embracing Nostalgia with Miffy: A Study in Textile Design
The Miffy plush toy collection at Dymocks offers a lesson in design and comfort using different fabrics and contemporary colour trends. These toys, an icon of minimalist design, are sustainably produced, evoke emotions, and symbolize the intersections of creativity and sustainability in decorative arts. Read More →
-
The Timeless Elegance of Moleskine Notebooks
During a shopping spree in Sydney, the author rediscovers Moleskine hardcover notebooks at Milligram. He appreciates the notebook’s perfect blend of design and function, symbolizing durability, facilitating writing as a therapeutic and creative practice, and invoking nostalgia for the traditional art of writing.Read More →
-
Arabia’s Sunnuntai Vitro Plate: A Sunny Day on a Dish
The Sunnuntai Vitro plate, designed by Birger Kaipiainen in 1971 for Arabia, combines its vibrant, intricate design with practicality and durability, embodying Finnish craftsmanship and timeless elegance.Read More →
-
Amy Corbett: Molding the Future of Lego Design
Amy Corbett, a senior design manager at Lego Group, transitioned from sustainable development work to toy design, shaping iconic Lego lines and appearing on TV show Lego Masters. Her diverse career highlights the broad opportunities within the design field.Read More →
-
The Q Stak Chair: A Testament to Modernism and Practical Design
The Q Stak chair, designed by Robin Day for Hille in 1953, embodies British modernism and the innovation of accessible, quality furniture. Combining aesthetics, practicality, and material innovation, it remains a seminal symbol of good design.Read More →
-
Muszla (Shell) Chair: A Timeless Emblem of Mid-Century Design
Hanna Lachert’s mid-century “Muszla” [Shell] chair, created in 1956, epitomizes aesthetic and functional mid-century modern design. Despite decades past since its creation, it remains popular due to its timeless appeal and iconic features.Read More →
-
Lalique Crystal Turquoise Fish Sculpture: A Study in Elegance
The Lalique Crystal Turquoise Fish Sculpture reflects Lalique’s heritage of opulent craftsmanship and natural inspirations. Handcrafted from fine crystal, it symbolizes abundance, creativity, and nature’s deep beauty.Read More →
-
Extreme Pinot Noir: A Confluence of Design and Oenology
The Riedel Extreme Pinot Noir wine glasses, with their unique design, enhance tasting experiences by aerating the wine and amplifying its fruity notes. Designed with the characteristics of New World wines in mind, these glasses also enhance the qualities of light-bodied, complex red wines like Pinot Noir.Read More →
-
Icona Capitals Kettle: A Confluence of Global Design Inspirations
The DeLonghi Icona Capitals 1.7L Kettle is more than a functional kitchen appliance; it’s a design masterpiece reflecting global city architectures while incorporating a three-level safety protection system and modern, efficient heating features.Read More →
-
Magicteam Sound Machine: Functionality and Design
The Magicteam Sound Machine combines minimalist design with 20 non-looping sounds, intuitive controls, and eco-friendly features, blending art and functionality seamlessly.Read More →
-
6 Reasons the Logitech Pop Mouse is an Eblem of Modern Design
Logitech’s POP Mouse merges technology and art with its vibrant pink hue, ergonomic design, SilentTouch technology, and customizable emoji button. The mouse combines aesthetics and usability, celebrating individuality, and offering modern adults a blend of playful and professional features. Read More →
-
Elevate Your Table: A Design Perspective on Wareland Pasta Bowls Set of 4
The Wareland Pasta Bowls Set of 4 is lauded for its elegant design, versatile use, and quality craftsmanship. Made from ultra-fine porcelain, the design prioritizes practicality, aesthetics, eco-friendliness, and easy maintenance, making it suitable for any kitchen or as a thoughtful gift.Read More →
-
7 Reasons Why ‘Good Design’ Improves Your Mood
Well-designed products enhance our mood through aesthetic pleasure, functionality, psychological impact, evoking nostalgia, quality craftsmanship, alignment with personal values, and novelty. These aspects make them catalysts for emotional well-being.Read More →
-
The Fiskar Orange-Handled Scissors: A Design Classic
Fiskars Original Orange-Handled Scissors, introduced in 1967, merges ergonomic design and quality with a distinctive design. These versatile, high-grade stainless steel scissors offer exceptional precision, durability, and comfort, particularly for smaller hands. They have a lifetime warranty and are a recognized design icon globally.Read More →
-
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual: Innovation and Craftsmanship
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual, introduced in 1926, is a hallmark of design innovation in horology. Its technological advancements, high-quality material usage, and enduring appeal make it more than a luxury item- it’s a true marvel in decorative and applied arts.Read More →
-
The Hudson J-3a Locomotive: An Icon of Streamlined Design
Explore the enduring legacy of the Hudson J-3a Locomotive, a masterpiece of streamlined design by Henry Dreyfuss. Discover how it redefined function and aesthetics in American industrial design during the interwar years.Read More →
-
The Art of Sound: Award-Winning Beosound Level Design
Explore the groundbreaking design of the Beosound Level, an audio speaker that won the iF Gold Award 2022 for its enduring appeal and sustainable build. This isn’t just a speaker; it’s an investment in a timeless audio experience.Read More →
-
Hindenburg Design Icon: A Journey Through Time
Explore the captivating history of the Hindenburg Zeppelin, from its elegant beginnings to its tragic end. Learn about the allure of air travel and its ultimate demise in this fascinating journey through timeRead More →
-
Jukebox Design by Wurlitzer iconic Americana
Jukebox Designs by Wurlitzer were celebrated for the iconic designs adopting “bubble tubes”, coloured filters and plastics. READ MORERead More →
-
Kaare Klint’s “KK47000” Safari Chair: A Refined and Iconic Design
Kaare Klint’s “KK47000” Safari Chair is a refined and iconic design that combines historical influences with modern sensibilities. Inspired by British campaign furniture, the chair features a simple ash wood frame, exquisite leather components, and visible joinery. Read More →
-
No. 22 Diamond Chair by Harry Bertoia
No. 22 Diamond Chair by Harry Bertoia. Many would argue that this is more of a sculpture than a chair. READ MORERead More →
-
The Osterizer Blender: A Glimpse of Design Innovation and Culinary Magic
Explore the rich history and innovative design of the Osterizer blender, a revolutionary kitchen appliance introduced in the 1950s. Known for its exceptional functionality and aesthetic appeal, the Osterizer blender has left a lasting impact on both domestic and professional cooking environments, blending efficiency and style. Its timeless design continues to inspire culinary creativity, making…
-
Treforchette Table Lamp (1997) Designer: Michelle de Lucchi
This sofa is designed in a so-called minimalist style that is basic and unadorned. Throughout the late 1980s, this emergent style had a significant impact on design in Europe. The sofa in question results from a significant collaboration between a talented young designer and a manufacturer committed to promoting new design.Read More →
-
Sofa (1988) Designer: Jasper Morrison
This sofa is designed in a so-called minimalist style that is basic and unadorned. Throughout the late 1980s, this emergent style had a significant impact on design in Europe. The sofa in question results from a significant collaboration between a talented young designer and a manufacturer committed to promoting new design.Read More →
-
Teapot with warmer by Christopher Dresser
Christopher Dresser, a pioneer of modern industrial design, was influenced by Japanese art, integrating minimalist and functional elements into his mass-produced designs.Read More →
-
Exploring the Enigmatic Beauty of the Dantesca Chair
The Dantesca Chair is a remarkable piece of furniture inspired by Dante Alighieri’s Divine Comedy. Its intricate design, featuring ornate carvings depicting scenes from the epic poem, pays homage to Dante’s imaginative journey through Hell, Purgatory, and Paradise. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the chair incorporates symbolic motifs and materials like fine woods and…
-
Ember Travel Mug 2: Temperature Control on the Go
The Ember Travel Mug 2, winner of the 2017 IDSA award, is a smart mug with long-lasting battery, temperature control, a touch display, and is designed for a busy lifestyle. This mug ensures beverage remains at the perfect temperature and is easily manageable.Read More →
-
Maximizing Bathroom Organization with a Large Shower Caddy Set
The FAFOOU Shower Caddy Shower Organizer offers a stylish and functional solution for bathroom storage. With its innovative design, durable construction, and versatile placement options, this black shower shelf is perfect for organizing shower essentials. The easy installation process and hassle-free maintenance make it ideal for various settings, including RV showers, small bathrooms, and apartments.…
-
Luminous Elegance: The Iconic DL8 Lucciola Table Light by Fabio Lenci (c.1972)
Discover the timeless beauty of the DL8 Lucciola table light designed by Fabio Lenci in approximately 1972. This iconic lighting fixture boasts an aluminum base and reflector, chrome-plated tubular metal stem, and captivating methacrylate disks. Standing at a maximum height of 72 cm, this masterpiece combines sleek aesthetics with functional brilliance, creating an illuminating ambiance…
-
The Timeless Elegance of the 1934 Mercedes Silver Arrow
The 1934 Mercedes Silver Arrow, a pioneering race car designed by Mercedes-Benz, captivated the automotive world with its sleek design and innovative engineering. With its aerodynamic body, powerful engine, and impressive victories on the racetrack, the Silver Arrow left an enduring influence on the industry. It stands as a symbol of automotive excellence, showcasing Mercedes-Benz’s…
-
The Olivetti Lettera 22 Typewriter – Lightweight and Compact
Olivetti’s 1950 Olivetti 22 typewriter became the standard for portable typewriters. Marcello Nizzoli’s Typewriter won the Compasso d’Oro at the 10th Triennale in Rome in 1951. Ettore Sottsass would further develop this design in the 1964 Teckne 3.Read More →
-
Parker 51 Fountain Pen – The World’s Most Wanted Pen
This sleek, aerodynamic design with its recognisable hooded nib was the result of a research programme finished in 1939, and it was promoted as “a pen from another planet” and “ten years ahead of its time.” It was released to mark the Parker Company’s 51st anniversary in the United States and quickly rose to the…
-
Chefman Single Serve Coffee Maker
Chefman Single Serve Coffee Maker espresso pod machine is an ideal gift for small kitchens, offices, or dorm rooms, offering convenience, convenience, and easy cleaning. It is cETL approved with advanced safety technology and a one-year warranty.Read More →
-
Sofa, Børge Mogensen, 1945
Børge Mogensen’s 1945 sofa, with its simple silhouette, draws from American Shaker and English Windsor styles, later gaining commercial success in the 1960s with beechwood and woven fabric.Read More →
-
Rolodex 500-Card Rotary Card File | (Design Classic)
There are few office equipment products more iconic than the Rolodex (the name comes from a combination of the words rolling and index). In the past, companies organised their contacts in Rolodexes. Rolodex is constructed as a cylindrical rotary card file on a tubular metal frame that contains A-Z index cards to store business contacts.Read…
-
Mona Lisa Clock – Antique of the Future
Mona Lisa Clock – Antique of the Future which features a close-up photo of the famous face.Read More →
-
Parola Telephone (1979) Soft and Inviting
Fausta Cavazza’s Parola Telephone was a groundbreaking design that changed the way people thought about telephones. It was made out of Santoprene, a soft substance developed by Monsanto that resists scratches and dirt. It was an instant hit with consumers and was a symbol of innovation and creativity. Cavazza patented the design in 1979 and…
-
The London Underground Map – Design Icon
The London Underground is the world’s oldest subway, most people know it colloquially as the Tube. An engineering marvel and just as almost as famous is the map. The Tube map is instantly recognisable all over the world. It is a simple and elegant diagram of the 400-kilometre subway network. It is considered by many…
-
The P40 Articulated Lounge Chair – Machine for Sitting
Osvaldo Borsani Armchair (P40) 1955, articulated chaise longue. The rubber-armed chair was a sophisticated ‘machine for sitting’ that could it was claimed, assume 486 positions.Read More →
You may also be interested in
Harry Bertoia (1915 – 1978) Italian sculptor, printmaker, jewellery and furniture designer
Harry Bertoia (1915 – 1978) was a sculptor, printmaker, jeweller, and furniture designer from Italy. He was born in San Lorenzo, Udine, and worked in the United States professionally. When Harry Bertoia was 15, he was given the choice of staying in drought-stricken Italy or moving to Detroit to live with his older brother, Oreste.
Dwell and Gear Patrol detail the Wassily Chair and Bertoia Diamond Chair
Dwell magazine’s suggested, “Stellar Deals” of the month, as well as a feature article by Gear Patrol, recently featured the Knoll Modern Comfort Sale. The Modern Comfort Sale features iconic, classic, and contemporary designs to help you make the most of the places you work, relax, and socialise.
1 Comment
Comments are closed, but trackbacks and pingbacks are open.